Winnie Ama’s journey into music wasn’t mapped out — it was more of a happy accident. What started as casual singing lessons after work quickly spiraled into something bigger. “I’d post clips of what I was learning on Facebook,” she recalls. “I’d also written some short songs using instrumentals I found on YouTube, so I shared those too.”
One of those clips caught the attention of a friend launching a music label. He saw something in Ama’s raw talent and invited her to collaborate on original music. That first song — “Dance” by Francis Groove — was the spark. From there, she became the behind-the-scenes force, penning tracks for other artists.
Then came “I Swear.” Originally written for another singer, the track found its way back to Ama when the vocalist dropped out. “She said it was too complicated, but I think she just didn’t like it,” she laughs. Instead of shelving the song, Ama decided to take the mic herself. “I worked hard to train my voice for that recording, and when it finally came out as “I Swear” by Francis Groove ft. Winnie Ama, it was so satisfying.” That was the turning point. Songwriting was no longer enough—she was ready to be the artist in the spotlight.
Chasing the Disco High
Ama’s latest release is a euphoric nod to the club scene — the kind of track that captures the magic of losing yourself in the music with the right person by your side. “It’s about taking someone you fancy to a club and getting swept up in the energy,” she explains. “You know that feeling when the DJ is absolutely killing it, the vibes are right, and you just let the night write its own script?”
It’s her most disco-inspired track to date, a shimmering departure that leans into the genre’s timeless allure. And for the first time, she went all-in on a full-scale music video. “I was awake for 23 hours straight working on that shoot,” she says. “But it was worth every second. I’m really proud of what we created.”
Finding Joy in a Chaotic World
While Ama’s music pulses with an irresistible groove, there’s a deeper philosophy at play. “I rarely use pronouns in my songs—I want everyone to feel included,” she says. “I want people to be able to sing along with their whole heart.”
Lately, she’s been focused on writing about happiness. Not because life is always easy, but because she sees music as a much-needed escape. “We’re surrounded by so much misery—greed, regressive politics, a numbness to suffering. It’s overwhelming,” she admits. “Music gives me a little light, a glimmer through the darkness.”
That contrast—the tension between joy and reality—has been there from the beginning. Her first-ever song, “What Are We,” was a reflection on humanity’s contradictions. But her upcoming album takes a different approach. “It’s about the heart from different angles— nostalgia, joy, defense, distance. But no matter the perspective, I want the music to bring happiness. It’s mostly upbeat and danceable because that’s what I need right now.”
Songs Meant for the Dance Floor
Ama approaches songwriting like an archaeologist unearthing something that already exists. “I don’t feel like I’m inventing a song — I feel like I’m discovering it,” she says. “I start with the headline, the thing I want people to remember, then build the atmosphere and story around it.”
Her latest single, “Fever,” was inspired by a real-life moment with her boyfriend. “I wanted to go out and dance, but he’s self-conscious about it. He hates dancing,” she says. “I was trying to convince him to just let go and forget about what anyone else thinks.” That’s the core of the song—finding freedom in the music, shedding inhibitions, and living in the moment.
The Thrill of the Stage
For Ama, live performance is everything. “It’s a privilege,” she says.
“Every single person who comes to see me and my band—I’m so grateful.” It wasn’t something she ever expected when she first started songwriting, but now she can’t imagine her life without it.
And she plans to be doing it for a long time. “I’ll be yelling ‘Wheel me down to the club’ when I’m 95, in a gold dress with a grey afro,” she jokes.
What makes performing special for her is the shared energy in the room. “Every gig is a unique moment we all experience together. It’s magical.” She stays after every show to talk with fans, soaking in their reactions.
“Every expression, every movement—it’s a conversation with the music.” Between gigs, she keeps in touch through social media and email, keeping the connection alive.
A Sound Shaped by Legends
Ama’s voice carries echoes of the greats — Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Etta James. But her influences stretch across genres. ‘“I reference jazz, soul, R&B, disco — definitely pop, but with deep roots.” She name-checks Donna Summer, Diana Ross, Sam Cooke, and Nina Simone, blending their essence with modern flair.
And then there’s her love of folk music. “When I’m home in Belfast, I love going to traditional Irish music nights. You find them in pubs every night of the week.” She cites Ottilie Patterson as a kindred spirit—an artist who embraced both folk and jazz with equal passion.
At SXSW, someone in the crowd gave her sound a new label—discsoul (disco-soul). “I love that,” she says. “I never try to fit into a box—whatever comes out, comes out. I let other people tell me what genre it is.”
Staying Independent, Staying Free
While many artists wrestle with balancing creative integrity and industry expectations, Ama is thriving in her independence. “Honestly? I’m just having a great time,” she says. “No one’s telling me who to be or what to do. I collaborate with brilliant producers and musicians, and we all bring our personalities into the music.”
The Northern Irish music scene, she says, is built on mutual support. “There’s a real camaraderie between independent artists. People genuinely want each other to succeed.” Events like SXSW have been invaluable, giving her a global perspective while reinforcing the importance of community. “Everything in the industry changes so fast. Staying open-minded and connected is key.”
What’s Next?
Ama’s SXSW experience has been a dream. “It’s been an honor to perform here,” she says. “I’ve followed it for years, watching Northern Irish artists make their mark. Being here, meeting other artists, sharing my debut album—it’s the perfect way to kick off the year.”
Now, she’s gearing up for the next chapter. Her debut album drops in October, complete with fresh visuals. But before that, she’s hitting the road, touring across the UK and Ireland with her full band. “All the gig dates will be on Instagram — @winnie_ama_— so keep an eye out.”
